Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
Ready in about 34 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Crisp breaded aubergine slices layered with marinara and melted mozzarella. The air fryer crisps the crumb coating without the heavy oil of frying, so this Italian-American comfort dish comes out lighter but every bit as satisfying.
Written for 4. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 1 large aubergine, sliced into rounds
- 60g plain flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 80g breadcrumbs
- 40g grated parmesan
- 200ml marinara sauce
- 100g mozzarella, torn
- Spray oil
- Fresh basil, to serve
Method
- 1Salt the aubergine slices for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
- 2Coat each slice in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
- 4Mist with oil and air fry for 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
- 5Top each slice with marinara and mozzarella.
- 6Air fry a further 4-6 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Tips for the best results
- Salting draws out moisture so the slices crisp rather than steam.
- Keep the slices in a single layer for even browning.
- Use a vegetarian hard cheese in place of parmesan if needed.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer eggplant parmesan steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the flip halfway, which leaves one side pale.
- Letting wet coating pieces touch, which peels the crust and keeps it soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer eggplant parmesan?
A typical starting point is 190°C / 375°F for 12-15 min, flip halfway. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
Can I make air fryer eggplant parmesan ahead?
Cook it, cool it quickly, and refrigerate. Reheat in the air fryer at a slightly lower temperature so the outside does not dry before the middle is hot.
How many people does air fryer eggplant parmesan serve?
This recipe is written for 4. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.
Can I make it ahead?
Bread the slices ahead and chill, then air fry and top just before serving.